River Hill Band Handbook

All parents of students in any Music Department group are automatically members of the Music Boosters and no dues are collected. The Music Boosters is a volunteer organization and a non-profit corporation. It is a separate group from the RHHS General Boosters and the P.T.S. A. The sole purpose of the Music Boosters is to support the Music Department and its students. This support takes many forms, including assisting with uniforms, chaperoning trips, fundraising, hospitality and much more. The Music Boosters also provides an opportunity for parents to show support for our students at performances and competitions.

The fund raising activities provide the necessary monetary assistance for the Music Department and help our students become integral members of the department. These activities also give students the opportunity to raise funds to help pay for the Spring Music Festival Trip. The Music Boosters provides parents the opportunity to become involved at River Hill High School, as well as to meet new people and make new friends. Like any volunteer organization, it requires the input of many people to make it successful. The more parents that become involved in the Music Boosters, the better job we can do for our students. With no increases in funding from the Board of Education, the efforts of the Music Boosters are essential to support the level of excellence the RHHS Music Department is striving to achieve.

Payments

There is a locked box inside the music teachers’ office where all fees and payments are to be placed. This is called THE BOX. Since we can never totally guarantee security, you are asked to make payments by personal check or money order. The Music Boosters can not be responsible for cash that is deposited in THE BOX.

Tax exempt Number

The Music Boosters is a non-profit corporation and has a tax-exempt number. If you are purchasing supplies to be used by the Music Department, you may use the number and avoid paying sales tax. Please call the treasurer to obtain a copy of the card.

Meetings

There are three general membership meetings each year, which all parents are strongly encouraged to attend. At the meetings we will review the accomplishments of the Music Department and discuss upcoming projects and budget issues. This is an excellent way to learn about what is happening in the Music Department and to meet other parents. All general meetings begin at 7:30 and are usually preceded by a board meeting at 6:30. The meetings are held in the band room. The following are our scheduled meetings for the 1999-00 school year:

Monday September 18 (overview of year’s activities)

Monday January 8 (fundraising update)

Monday May 7 (budget and election of officers)

Also, the Executive Board of the Music Boosters will meet each month at 7:00 in the choir room. The meetings will be on the first Monday of the month except when there is a school holiday on that day. These meetings are open and all parents are invited to attend.

Officers

Feel free to contact any of our officers with questions or suggestions:

President	Sue Zimmerman	(301) 854-0050	zimmermansue@juno.com
Vice-President	Sue Mdicus	(301) 725-5835	medicusgrp@aol.com
Recording Secretary	Nina Clopton	(301) 483-9966	nclop@aol.com
Corresponding Secretary	Pat Knaack	(301) 596-9960	jak8801@aol.com
Treasurer	Deborah Decker	(410) 997-9341	dldecker@prodigy.net
Administrative Liaison	Dr. Barbara Dandridge, Assistant Principal		(410) 313-7120

Communications

Information will be shared with parents and students in many different ways. We have found one of our most frequent complaints from parents is lack of awareness of due dates for fees or other important information. Announcements will be made to the students in class, notices will be sent home from school, mailings will be sent to homes, and you will receive phone calls several times a year from a phone tree. A new addition will be an easel in the band and choir room. Important information will be made available to the students on these boards which will be updated regularly. Students will also be able to sign up for events such as car washes and fruit deliveries on these boards. The band director will be sending newsletters to band members as needed throughout the year to inform students and families about band camp, marching performances, and jazz band schedules. Also, please carefully read both this handbook and the PTSA Newsletter that is mailed to your home. There is a listing of web sites and telephone numbers to call for information. For up to date information about events and deadlines, you are encouraged to sign up for the Unofficial RHHS Register by sending an email to riverhill@egroups.com.

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III. Band

Mr. Steve Wampler is the director of the band program at RHHS. His e-mail address is swampler@mail.howard.k12.md.us or wamp@home.com. Mr. Scott Vincent is the percussion instructor.

Mr. Steven Wampler began his music career in Orange, Virginia as a trumpet player. After high school, Mr. Wampler entered the U.S. Army and served as a bandsman at Ft. Hood, Texas, where he changed his MOS to flute and saxophone. After completing his tour of service, he attended Temple Jr. College for one year and completed his B.S. in Music Education at the University of Connecticut as a bassoon major.

After teaching in Vermont for 4 years, Mr. Wampler taught for one year in Connecticut and returned to UConn where he earned his MM in Music Education with an emphasis in conducting. He was graduate assistant to Prof. Gary Green, now at Miami. Mr. Wampler was director of bands at Edison High School in Fairfax County, Virginia for 7 years before moving to River Hill High School. Mr. Wampler and his bands have performed for three presidents, the first Martin Luther King Day Observance Parade in Atlanta, Georgia and have received numerous “Superior” ratings, awards, and honors.

Mr. Wampler has studied conducting with Gene Corporon, Gary Green, Larry Ratcliff, H. Robert Reynolds, Craig Kirchoff, Dr. Paul Phillips, Alan Gillespie and Dr. “Dutch” Cossaboom. Mr. Wampler has been active in musical theatre and won the FORSCOM Award of Excellence for “Pippin.” In addition, he has conducted “Jesus Christ, Superstar,” “Music Man,” “Grease,” “Anything Goes,” to name a few and performed in the Pit with many others.

Marching Band (Including Guard and Percussion Pit)

The Marching Band is composed of all members of the Wind Ensemble, interested members of the Symphonic Band and Percussion Ensemble, and the Color Guard (Silks). Students who are Marching Band Only MUST attend all of the summer band camp to march in the fall marching season. Marching Band members must attend all performances and competitions through out the fall. The band will march at all River Hill High School home football games. In addition, they will compete in three or four marching band competitions. Guard members will have tryouts in the spring to be eligible to be members of the guard. Final auditions occur at summer band camp. Family and friends are always welcome at any of these performances. The band members appreciate the support of their fans and the home football games are always a lot of fun.

The entrance fee to River Hill football games is about $3.00 per person. Typically, competitions charge an admission fee of about $5.00 per person.

Marching Band Camp will be

9 AM-4PM July 31- Aug 11 Flag Camp

9 AM – 4 PM July 31- Aug 4. Percussion

9:00 AM-4:00 PM August 2 - 4 (New Marching Band Students)

9:00 AM-4:00 PM August 7- 11 (All Band Members)

Aug. 13-17 Away Band Camp (All Band Members)

During these practice times, the band and guard will learn and practice the new show for the fall season. Lunch will not be provided but a 1-hour break is scheduled during the home band camp.

Fees

There will be a fee of $100.00 for all Marching Band members to help cover the cost of preparing and maintaining a marching program. Siblings are 1/ 2 price ($50.00). Managers will pay a $50.00 fee and they will perform with the marching band at parades and other activities such as pep rallies. The marching band fee goes toward the cost of writing the drill, hiring drum line and guard instructors, equipment, and costs of traveling to and entering competitions. This fee is due the first day of Band Camp. Payment may be made by check made out to RHHS Music Boosters and mailed to the school or placed in THE BOX on the wall in the music teachers’ office. This fee is required of all students who participate in the marching band, even if they do not attend the marching band camp. If special circumstances make it impossible for you to pay the total fee at this time, please speak privately to Mr. Wampler.

There will also be a $25.00 uniform usage fee that each student must pay by the first day of band camp. Uniforms will not be distributed until this fee has been paid. Please see Section VI Uniforms page17 for more information about uniform fees.

Practices

Please see the job board in the band room for practice times. The usual practice times for marching band will be Tuesdays from 6:30– 8:30PM. And Thursdays from 2:30-4:30PM. Marching Band members will receive a schedule of after school and evening rehearsals for August through November. In addition, there will be scheduled practices on Saturdays of home football games as well as Saturday practices before competitions.

Uniforms

Each member of the Marching Band will be issued a uniform to be worn at all performances. The band members will receive a jacket, pants, and hat. Members must supply their own black socks. Shoes and gloves will be needed and can be purchased during band camp. Mrs. Valerie Evans will be in charge of glove and shoe distribution and payments. If you have any questions please

call her at (301) 483-9699. Uniforms will be distributed during the first few weeks of school and after uniform fees been paid. Please see Section VI Uniforms page 16 for more information about uniforms.

Chaperones

Six chaperones are needed for every home game to help Mr. Wampler and to keep the students organized. One chaperone for every 10 students is needed for every away competition. Permission forms and medical forms are also required to attend all the away competitions. Mrs. Pat Knaack will be recruiting chaperones and helping Mr. Wampler with paperwork. Mrs. Knaack’s phone number is (301) 596-9950 and e-mail jak8801@aol.com.

Pit Pals

A dedicated group of 6-8 volunteers is needed for each marching band show to help move equipment on and off the field and in and out of the band room. Please call Mr. Jim Knaack at (301) 596-9959 if you are available to help. This group also helps with the indoor drum line as well as arranging for all large instruments and equipment to go to away competitions. Special hats are provided.

Color Guard

Ms. Michelle Bazlamit will be the instructor for the guard. Ms. Bazlamit is currently enrolled at Wake Forest University and is captain of the color guard at Wake Forest.

Uniforms

All members will need to purchase their own footwear. Other parts of the uniform will be provided. All rookies must purchase a practice rifle. The uniform for the indoor season has not yet been determined.

Fees

There will be a $100.00 fee for all outdoor guard members to help cover the cost of writing the drill, paying the instructors, equipment, and costs of traveling to and entering competitions. Siblings of guard or marching band members are ½ price ($50.00). This fee is due the first day of summer Band Camp. Payment may be made by check made out to the RHHS Music Boosters and mailed to the school or placed in THE BOX on the wall in the music teachers’ office. If special circumstances make it impossible for you to pay the total fee at this time, please speak privately to Mr. Wampler.

There will also be a $25.00 uniform usage fee that each student must pay by the first day of band camp. Uniforms will not be distributed until this fee has been paid. Please see Section VI Uniforms page 16 for more information about uniform fees.

Wind Ensemble

The Wind Ensemble meets all year during period 2 on A day. It is a regularly scheduled, embedded class that meets every other day. Students are required to audition for this band. Wind Ensemble members must be members of the Marching Band, attend after-school rehearsals and performances, and maintain high standards of performance and behavior. Students who do not adhere to these high standards may not continue to be a member of the Wind Ensemble. The band will give concerts, attend several adjudications and travel to the Spring Music Festival.

Rehearsals

In addition to practice during the regularly scheduled class period for Wind Ensemble, there will be Tuesday rehearsals from 6:30-8:30 PM and sectional rehearsals will be scheduled as needed.

Uniforms

Students will be issued a concert dress or tuxedo, cummerbund, and bow tie to wear at all concerts and adjudications. All men must purchase a tuxedo shirt through the school for $15.75. Men must wear black socks and dress shoes. Women must wear black hose and black dress shoes. There is a $25.00 usage fee for the concert uniform. Please see Section VI Uniforms page 16 for more information about uniforms.

Symphonic Band

Any student who can play a wind instrument or percussion may be a member of the Symphonic Band. This band meets all year, every other day, as an embedded class during period 3. Members of this band may choose to participate in the marching band. Symphonic Band members will be required to attend after-school rehearsals as necessary. Members of the Symphonic Band will also be required to maintain high standards of performance and behavior. The Symphonic Band will give several concerts, attend adjudications and travel to the Spring Music Festival.

Rehearsals

Some evening rehearsals will be needed to prepare for concerts. Dates and times will be posted.

Uniforms

Percussion Ensemble

This group will meet after school with sectional rehearsals scheduled as needed. The members will learn rudiments, timpani and mallets. All percussionists are required to have a stick bag, concert snare sticks, yarn and hard rubber mallets, pitch pipe, and timpani mallets. The Percussion Ensemble will perform percussion music as well as perform with the Symphonic Band.

Uniforms

The uniform for the percussion ensemble will be decided by Mr. Wampler and the students.

Jazz Ensemble

Students audition in the fall and after the winter jazz concert for membership in the Jazz Ensemble. This is a co-curricular group that meets after school hours. Members must attend rehearsals and performances, and maintain high standards of performance and behavior. Students who miss rehearsals and/or do not prepare music may be replaced at the director’s discretion after a warning. A student who is late or misses a performance may be replaced without warning if the director deems it necessary. The group includes saxophones, trombones, trumpets, piano, guitar, bass, percussion and a vocalist. Jazz Ensemble will perform at concerts, adjudications, community events, and will travel to the Spring Music Festival. Jazz students need to attend the spring trip and other jazz trips the jazz band may take during the school year. There is one person on a part and an absence hurts the performance.

Rehearsals

Regular rehearsals will be held Mondays after school. Exact times will be posted.

Uniform

The uniform will be decided following auditions.

Jazz Lab

This is a regularly scheduled class that meets all year, every other day as an embedded class during periods 2 and 3. Students must audition to be a part of this group. The class will study jazz styles, history, arranging and composition. The jazz lab will perform at concerts, adjudications, and community functions.

Rehearsals

Some evening rehearsals will be required before concerts. Dates and times will be posted.

Uniforms

The uniform will be announced.

The Indoor Drum Line/Percussion

The Indoor Drum Line/Percussion will be announced at the conclusion of marching band season. There will be a $35.00 fee assessed to pay for instructors and transportation to competitions.

Indoor Guard

Indoor Guard is an extracurricular group that practices after school beginning in the winter. They will attend adjudications and travel to the Spring Music Festival.

Indoor guard members will be assessed a fee of $35.00 to cover the costs of instructors and fees associated with traveling to and entering competitions.

Uniform

The indoor guard uniform has not yet been finalized. For those joining after marching band season, there will be a $25.00 uniform usage fee. Additional costumes that go with the choreography of the show may need to be purchased by the individual members.

Additional Ensembles

Other ensembles such as quartets, a clarinet choir, etc. will be formed during the year. Students will practice after school.

The Band Letter

All sophomores who are members of the Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble are eligible to receive the Band Letter. Students who complete the following during their sophomore year or later may earn the Master Musician Band Letter.

1. Student participates in 2 years of Marching Band with no unexcused absences.

2. Student participates in All State Auditions with a score that reflects preparation.

3. Student participates in 3 fruit deliveries each year.

4. Student performs 15 service hours that serves the music department.

IV. Choirs

Ms. Betsy Graff is the director of the choral program at RHHS. Her e-mail address is bgraff@mail.howard.k12.md.us or elgraff@toad.net.

Ms. Betsy Graff has been the Choir Director at River Hill High School since it opened in 1996. She began her teaching career as a middle school vocal music teacher in New York State, where she was nominated by her colleagues for “New York State Teacher of the Year”. She has been teaching in Howard County since 1978, spending 13 years at Atholton High School, and two years at Owen Brown Middle School. She has been a part of Music Curriculum teams which have written Curriculum Guides for Middle School General Music, Instrumental Music K-12, “Music and Society”, and High School Choral Music.

Ms. Graff took a respite from public school teaching 1991-94 and attended the Florida State University in Tallahassee as a doctoral student where she studied conducting with Rodney Eichenberger, and is currently a candidate for the Ph.D in Choral Music Education. Ms. Graff attended Mount Holyoke college and holds a Master’s Degree in Music Education from Syracuse University. Ms. Graff has studied piano, clarinet, voice, and has participated in bands, orchestras, and choirs at the New England Music Camp in Oakland, Maine. She has adjudicated Choral festivals throughout Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Ms. Graff has been active in the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), the Music Educators National Conference (MENC), and the Maryland Music Educators Association (MMEA). She served as the President of Maryland Choral Educators Association (MCEA) from 1989-91, President of the North Central Region, which encompasses Cecil, Harford, Howard, and Baltimore County and City from 1998-99, and is currently serving as the President-Elect of MMEA. She also served as president of the student ACDA chapter at Florida State in 1991-92.

Concert Choir

The Concert Choir is the cornerstone of the Choral program at River Hill. Membership in the Choir is a requirement for participation in any other choral ensemble. All River Hill students are eligible for membership in the Concert Choir.

Concert Choir is a credit course which has co-curricular activities. Students in the instrumental music program and the Tech Magnet program may participate in the Choir by singing at A, B, or C lunch time and the weekly after school rehearsals. The Choir performs at the Winter, MadJazz, and Spring concerts, MayFest, school assemblies, the Howard County Choral Festival, graduation, community activities, and travels on the Spring Music Department Trip. We are adding a new all-choral concert, “A Pops Concert”, on October 17, 2000.

All State Chorus

Students interested in auditioning for All State Chorus should see Ms. Graff during the first or second week of school. Ninth graders audition for Junior Chorus, 10^th – 12^th graders audition for Senior Chorus. Students MUST be registered for choir and/or Madrigal Singers to be eligible to audition for these groups.

Rehearsals

Concert Choir meets on A days during 3^rd period for the entire 2000-01 school year. Students whose schedule conflicts make it impossible to sing for credit attend “lunch choir” on a regular basis and must be in Choir for the entire lunch shift on each rehearsal day. These students have an occasional need to use their lunchtime for make-up work or to buy tickets for school activities and should notify Ms. Graff in advance. Please see Ms. Graff if your schedule prevents you from registering for the class.

After-school weekly rehearsals will be held on Wednesdays from 6 to 7 PM. ALL students in the Choir must attend these rehearsals every week unless excused in advance. Please communicate with Ms. Graff about any conflicts which occur! (Each individual situation and emergency will be dealt with individually.) Students receive a schedule for the entire year in September. Please put all dates on your family calendar.

Uniforms

Madrigal Singers

The Madrigal Singers is a chamber choir auditioned from the membership of the Concert Choir. This ensemble performs a variety of music, but specializes in the a cappella part-songs of the Renaissance known as “madrigals”. Participation in Concert Choir is a requirement for membership in the Madrigal Singers. This group performs at the Pops, Winter, MadJazz, and Spring concerts, MayFest, school assemblies, the Howard County Madrigal Festival, community activities, and travels on the Spring Music Department Trip. The 1997-98 and 1998-99 Madrigal Singers were honored by invitations to sing at the State House and Governor’s Mansion as part of the “Celebration of the Arts in Maryland.”

Rehearsals

Madrigal Singers meet as a class on B days during 3^rd period this year. All members must be registered for the class. Special arrangements with Orchestra or Band students whose rehearsals conflict with Madrigals may be worked out, or Tech Magnet students with credit conflicts may be accommodated. This will vary from year to year, and each case will be dealt with individually.

Weekly (required) after school rehearsals will be held on Friday afternoons from 2:15–3:15. A complete schedule will be issued in September. Please clear your family calendar for these dates!

Uniforms

Students will be issued Renaissance period costumes. There will be a $25.00 usage fee for the uniform. Students must provide black tights and special soft-soled, black shoes. Uniforms fees must be paid before uniforms can be distributed. For more information on uniforms, please see Section VI Uniforms on page16.

Women’s Choir

Women’s Choir is open to all women in the Concert Choir. This ensemble performs music for treble voices of many different styles and periods. This group performs at the Pops, Winter, MadJazz, and Spring concerts, school assemblies, and travels on the Spring Music Department Trip.

Rehearsals

Women’s Choir meets weekly from 5 to 6 PM on Wednesdays.

Uniforms

The uniform will be the same dress as for Concert Choir. Please see Section VI Uniforms page 16 for more information about uniforms.

Men’s Choir

Men’s choir is open to all men in the Concert Choir. This ensemble performs music for men’s voices of many different styles and periods. This group may perform at the Pops, Winter, MadJazz, and Spring concerts, school assemblies, and travels on the Spring Music Department Trip.

Rehearsals

Men’s Choir rehearsal schedule is yet to be determined.

Uniforms

The uniform will be the same as Concert Choir. Please see Section VI Uniforms page 16 for more information about uniforms.

Barbershop Quartet

This group will be auditioned from interested men from the Concert Choir. The primary focus of the group will be on singing traditional Barbershop repertoire. Members of this group will be responsible for learning some music on their own. Mr. Ensor will assist in coaching this group. This ensemble will perform at the Pops, Winter, MadJazz, and Spring concerts, MayFest, community activities, and travel on the Spring Music Department Trip.

Rehearsals

Rehearsal times will be Tuesdays from 2:10 to 3:10 PM.

Uniforms

The uniform will be decided jointly by the group and the instructor. A vest and hat may be added.

Women’s Small Ensemble (The Divas)

This ensemble will be auditioned from interested women from the Concert Choir. This group’s repertoire will be focused on arrangements from different musical eras. This group will meet at least twice a week – once with Ms. Graff after school, and once on their own. Members of this group will be responsible for learning parts on their own. This ensemble will perform at the Pops, Winter, MadJazz, and Spring concerts, MayFest, community activities, and travel on the Spring Music Department Trip.

Rehearsals

Rehearsal times will be determined once the membership of the group is established.

Uniform

The uniform for this group will be decided jointly by the members of the group and the instructor.

V. Orchestras

Mrs. Rosemary Lather is the director of the orchestra at RHHS. Her e-mail address is rlather@mail.howard.k12.md.us or Rlather@aol.com.

Mrs. Lather has been teaching orchestra in Howard County Schools for 16 years. She is currently orchestra director at River Hill High School and Clarksville Middle School. This is Mrs. Lather’s 8^th year as director of the Howard County G/T Middle School Orchestra. Mrs. Lather has previously taught orchestra at Hammond High School, Hammond Middle School, Patuxent Valley Middle School, Harper’s Choice Middle School, and Clarksville Elementary School. She has also taught violin and chamber music for three years at Western Maryland College.

Mrs. Lather has studied violin with Robert Gerle (Catholic University, Peabody, and UMBC) and for six years with Herbert Greenberg (BSO Concertmaster). She has also studied for 6 years with Berl Senofsky and Charles Lebove, both of Peabody. Her undergraduate degree is in Music from the University of Maryland. She also earned the Juris Doctor degree from the University of Maryland.

Mrs. Lather has played in the Maryland Symphony for 15 years in the first violin section and she has played in the first violin section of the Harrisburg Symphony, Fairfax Symphony, and Millbrook Chamber Orchestra. In addition, she has been the concertmistress of the Columbia Orchestra for 4 years.

In her spare time, Mrs. Lather and her husband, Tom, are very active performing music of the Civil War era. They perform all over the east coast for reenactments at battlefield parks, Civil War roundtables, 19^th century balls and weddings, etc. The Lathers have completed their second CD of Civil War era music and the CD’s are available at battlefield bookshops and through the Lathers. Mr. and Mrs. Lather have recorded the sound track for several battlefield visitor center videos and documentaries.

Mrs. Lather, her husband, and two children, Tom and Amy, reside in the River Hill High School school district along with their three dogs.

Orchestra

Orchestra meets B day period 3 throughout the school year. Students with prior playing experience may join the orchestra. Those players whose schedule prevents them from enrolling in orchestra may be allowed, by audition, to participate in the orchestra. These players must attend lunch rehearsals and rehearsals on Thursdays from 2:10-3:00. Orchestra members will perform at concerts, adjudications, community events, and will travel to the Spring Music Festival. Each student will need access to a cassette recorder and a blank tape for playing tests.

Rehearsals

Additional rehearsals may be needed as performances approach. They will be held on Monday evenings from 7:00 – 8:30, as needed.

Uniforms

The River Hillbillies Bluegrass Band

The much acclaimed River Hillbillies rehearse at a mutually agreeable time They are directed by Rosemary and Tom Lather. The instrumentation consists of banjo, guitar, fiddle, and bass. A mandolin player would also be welcomed. The band performs at Music Department Concerts, as well as other events. Interested players may contact Mrs. Lather. Dress will be decided by the group.

Small Ensembles

One or two string quartets may be formed and will practice once a week after school. There will be a variety of performance opportunities. Other small groups may be formed for the Solo and Ensemble Festival.

String, wind, and percussion players may be needed for the spring musical to play in the pit orchestra.

VI. Uniforms

Uniform Description

Marching Band

Marching Band members will be issued a marching band uniform.

Men and Women Pants

Jacket

Hat

Blue Garment Bag

Additionally all students are required to purchase through Mr. Wampler:

Gloves price varies according to instrument played

Black marching shoes $20.00 - $24.00

Music lyre $4.00 - $8.00 depending on instrument

Members must wear black socks.

Outdoor Guard

The members of the guard will be issued a white skirt, blue sequined hat and cummerbund, and a red scarf. The students must provide a bodysuit, tights, gloves, and shoes. Additional costumes may need to be purchased by the individual members to go with the choreography of the show for the winter guard.

Indoor Drum Line

Please see marching band information. If a student was already in the marching band, there will be no additional uniform fee. If the student was not in the marching band, a $25.00 uniform usage fee will be charged.

Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Choir, Percussion Ensemble, and Orchestra

Students in these groups will be issued the following concert uniform:

Men Black tuxedo jacket Women Black dress

Black tuxedo pants Black garment bag

Black cummerbund

Black bow tie

Black garment bag

Men are expected to purchase a white tuxedo shirt through the school. The cost is approximately $15.75. Men are to wear black dress shoes and black socks.

Women are to wear black hose and black dress shoes. Necklaces and large earrings must not be worn. A slip must be worn under the dress.

Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Lab

The Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Lab members’ uniform has not yet been finalized. A pair of khaki pants and black dress shoes will probably be needed to be supplied by the students. Vocalists will supply their own appropriate dress. No uniform usage fee will be charged for Jazz Ensemble or Jazz Lab members. Men and women will wear the same uniform

Madrigal Singers

Madrigal Singers will be issued the following costume:

Men Pants Women Dress

Jacket Hat

Hat

Students are to provide their own black tights and black-soled shoes.

Hemming Pants

Tuxedo pants and Marching Band pants should be hemmed, as needed. However, please do not cut off any of the fabric. Students may need the extra length in the future.

Usage Fees

Uniform fees cover the cost of purchase, maintenance, cleaning, and replacement of uniforms. Students must pay their uniform fees before a uniform can be issued. Fitting times will usually be held during scheduled music rehearsal times. Fees may be paid by check made out to RHHS Music Boosters and placed in THE BOX on the wall in the music teachers’ office. Payments may also be mailed to the school. Please do not combine checks for fundraisers with uniform fees. If there are special circumstances that make it impossible for your family to pay the complete fee, please speak privately to your student’s music teacher.

One uniform (i.e. Marching, Concert, Guard) $25.00

Two or more uniforms $50.00

Maximum Family Fee $75.00

Storage

Uniforms must be taken home from school and stored at home. Students will not be allowed access to the uniform storage closet that will be kept locked at all times. When uniforms must be brought to school for daytime performances, they can be hung on the portable clothing racks in the band room. Students may use the practice rooms and restrooms for changing clothes the uniform storage closet may not be used as a changing room.

Cleaning

Students are encouraged to keep their uniforms clean throughout the year. Uniforms must be dry cleaned, not washed in water. However, the tuxedo shirt should be washed after each use. After the last performance of the musical group, uniforms will be immediately collected. The Music Boosters will arrange for bulk dry cleaning and the cost will be paid by the Music Boosters from uniform fees. Garment bags and marching band hats must also be returned. The uniforms must be returned in person and report cards will be withheld until uniforms are returned.

Damaged and Missing Uniforms

Students are responsible for the replacement costs of damaged or missing uniforms or any of the parts. The following list shows the replacement costs of uniforms.

Marching band jacket $125.00

pants $75.00

hat $50.00

garment bag $8.00

Concert dress for women $120.00

Garment bag $13.00

Tuxedo jacket $65.00

Tuxedo pants $33.00

Cummerbund $6.50

Bow tie $3.00

Garment bag $8.00

Madrigal Costume $150.00

Diva Dress $50.00

VII. Spring Trip

Virginia Beach and Busch Gardens

April 26 - 29

Each year the Music Department will participate in a national-level competition and adjudication. Individual groups enter categories appropriate to their area of performance. The students are judged by an expert panel, receive constructive criticism, and compete for various trophies.

This trip is a highlight for students and they look forward to it all year. For the 2000-01 school year, the students will be traveling to Virginia Beach and Busch Gardens where they will compete in a music festival. At the adjudication, students are evaluated by expert adjudicators. Students meet and listen to performing groups from other states and gain valuable performance experience. Furthermore, there is a true bonding among the students from the whole department. A long coach bus ride, sharing hotel rooms, a special activity, and interaction with teachers, administrators, and parents all contribute positively to the experience.

Chaperones and Safety

The Music Department trip is well chaperoned. There is at least one chaperone for every ten students and a school administrator usually attends. The music teachers select chaperones. Students share hotel rooms, usually 4 to a room. Students are given the opportunity to choose their roommates. There is a curfew every night and chaperones monitor hallways to enforce it.

All school rules, including those pertaining to medications, alcohol and drugs are enforced during the trip. Before the trip, students make a pledge in front of their parents and school officials to abide by the rules for the trip. All students are required to attend school the day after the trip with all assignments completed.

Costs

The trip will cost about $350.00 and will include transportation, music festival registration, hotel, and some meals. This amount is not exact and may need to be adjusted. Special activities such as a theme park, Broadway play, or pizza parties are normally included. The overall cost of the trip will vary from year to year depending upon the length of the trip, the activities and the distance traveled. We suggest $30 to $75.00 additional spending money for extra meals, snacks, gifts, souvenirs, etc.

Payment

A non-refundable deposit of $35.00 will be requested in the fall from anyone interested in participating in the Spring Music Department Trip. Additional payments are usually due in three equal parts in January, February and March. Payment may be made by check and mailed to the school or placed in THE BOX on the wall in the music teachers’ office. Each family should decide with their student how to finance the trip. However, the Boosters encourage students to pay for at least part of their trip. The Music Boosters offer a variety of fund raising opportunities for students to earn money for their trip. The key is to start planning early in the school year and begin fund raising activities early. For families with financial difficulties, the Music Boosters may be able to help with funding. Please speak privately with your student’s music teacher or Sue Zimmerman, the Music Boosters President.

See information in Section VIII. Fund Raising for information about student accounts.

Refund Policy

The initial deposit of $35.00 is non-refundable. There can be no full refunds given after January 30. This is based on the contractual agreements the RHHS Music Boosters will have made with the festival organizers and the bus company. If money can be refunded from the festival organizers, a refund for that amount would be given to the student. However, fees that can not be recouped by the RHHS Music Boosters can not be refunded to the student.

Parent Attendance

Parents who are not chaperoning are very welcome to attend at their own expense. Arrangements can usually be made to stay in the same hotel or a different hotel. Parents sit with the students during the awards ceremony and give a standing ovation for the River Hill performers. The students and directors appreciate the support.

VIII. Fund Raising

The Music Boosters conduct fund-raising activities through out the year to support the Music Department and to help students offset the cost of the spring trip. A portion or all of certain fundraisers is allocated to student accounts, while some fundraisers generate funds for the Music Boosters fund only. We believe that all students should participate in all fundraisers. We strongly feel that students need to give back to a program that they benefit from. Furthermore, there is no better way to get to know other students and feel part of a group then to get wet at a car wash, make 1,000 subs or help set up for a concert.

We also ask that each family volunteer in at least one fundraiser each year. We have big and small jobs – many need little or no training. The Boosters are trying to create an excellent music program and support a great group of students, but we need the help of parent volunteers. It is also a great way to meet other parents and students and to learn what is going on.

Accounts

All funds raised will be divided into two accounts: the Music Boosters general account and individual student accounts.

Music Boosters Account is used to maintain the music program by providing money for uniforms (current and future), maintenance, adjudication and competition registrations, marching band productions (beyond the $100.00 fee from students), and music equipment not supplied by the Board of Education. (Piano, risers, instruments and cases, music, etc.). The Boosters also publish a newsletter, send out student account balances, and host the annual awards banquet. Each year the Executive Committee proposes a budget that is approved by the general membership of the Music Boosters.

Student Accounts are the results of an allocation of money from various fund raising activities. All the proceeds from some fund raising activities are credited to the account of the student doing the fund raising. Part of the proceeds of other fundraisers is credited to the individual student’s account. Students will receive account reports periodically so they and their families know how much the student has in their account. Money in the student account can be used for the spring trip, the marching band fee and the uniform fee. Please note that this is a change from previous years when student account money could only be used for the spring trip. Money not used in one year may be rolled over to the student’s account for the next year. No money credited to a student’s account can be given out as cash or transferred to another student’s account except for those seniors who have siblings entering or currently in the Music Department the next year. If a graduating senior has funds in an account and no sibling at the school, the remaining funds will revert to the Music Boosters account. If a student is still attending RHHS but is not participating in the Music Department, funds will be held in the student’s name for two years. The funds would then revert back to the Music Boosters account unless there is a younger sibling participating in the Music Department. This Music Boosters account is used to offset part of the cost of the spring trip for those who have a significant financial difficulty and otherwise would not be able to go on the trip.

Deborah Decker will be in charge of student account records. Her phone number is (410) 997-9341 e-mail dldecker@rodigy.net

Fund Raising Projects

The Music Boosters has a variety of fund raising projects planned. However, we are always open to suggestions of new ways to raise funds. Sue Medicus is chairperson of the Ways and Means Committee. Her phone number is (301) 725-5835. Please write a separate check for each fund raising event even if money is due at the same time. Each fund raising coordinator will be keeping track of money separately and this necessitates separate checks.

We hope that families will support these projects by volunteering their time and also buying some of the products. Also, please consider some of these items as business gifts. We are very open to special requests for large orders (special delivery, custom packaging, etc.).

Listed below are planned fundraisers, coordinators, and dates if known.

Car Wash September 9, 2000

Dana and Therese Sohr (301) 854-1076 dsohr@rwd.com

An additional car wash will be scheduled for the spring.

The students obtain pledges of support for the number of cars washed. The actual car wash is free but we do accept donations. Students receive 50% of their car wash pledges for their student accounts and the remainder goes to the Music Boosters account for general expenses.

Discount Cards September 2000

Denise Ellingson (301) 490-843 mdenisee@hotmail.com

A plastic card that lists discounts at area merchants has been ordered. It is customized with our school logo and colors and has merchants suggested by the students last year. The card will sell for $5.00 and costs us $1.75. Three dollars of the proceeds will go to the student’s account.

Fruit Sales monthly from November through March (may be extended to April)

Pam Griesbach (301) 596-9055 pgriesbach@juno.com

Students collect orders for boxes of fresh citrus fruit from Florida. The order is delivered directly to the school on a Saturday morning each month. Orders are picked up by the students or customers at the school at a pre-set time. Students unload the truck while parents supervise. Parents are needed to help check the orders as customers and/or students come to pick up their fruit orders. Students receive 75% of the proceeds or $3.00 - $4.00 per box. Some students have financed their entire spring trip through fruit orders.

Sub Sales made the Sat. before Super Bowl- Jan. 27, 2001

Kathy Adler (301) 854-2896 and Jan Thurman (301) 776-1146 thurman27@aol.com

Students collect orders during January for cold cut or turkey subs for immediate use or freezer ready. On a Saturday morning, the students make and wrap the subs in an assembly line. In the afternoon, the students deliver the subs to their customers. Students will receive 50-75% of the proceeds ($1.50-$2.00 per sub). Twenty to thirty parents are needed on Saturday morning to 1). Arrange sub materials for students, 2). Supervise students assembling subs and 3). Bag sub orders.

Otis Spunkmeyer Cookie Dough and Muffins November and December

Kathy Churns (410) 531-5329 tamimatt@erols.com

Once in November and once in December students will take orders for frozen Otis Spunkmeyer cookie dough and Otis Spunkmeyer muffins. Some portion of the proceeds would be credited to student accounts. Baked Otis cookies may on occasion be sold after school or at special events.

Pizza Kits February 2001

Ginny Wollen (410) 531-6133 Ginny29458@aol.com

Students will take orders for coupons for Papa Johns Pizza. The coupons contain a certificate for a free large pizza and then 20 “buy one and get one free coupons.” The cost of the sheet of coupons is $10.00. Students receive $5.00 for each sheet of coupons sold.

Tiny Tots Concert November 28 and December 2, 2000

Coordinator Pat Knaack (301) 596-9950 jak8801@aol.c om

This is a seasonal band concert attended by early elementary school aged children. Schools often send entire classes but individuals may also purchase tickets to attend. Our music students perform the program and some guard and drama members are in holiday costumes. Parents are needed to help sell tickets, decorate the auditorium, and help with the large numbers of young children attending. Students are not directly involved with selling tickets and all proceeds go the Music Boosters general account.

Sponsor Program early fall

Coordinator Kathy Bonebreak (410)531-5430 bbjr@erols.com

Letters are sent out to local businesses asking if they would like to be gold, silver or bronze sponsors of the RHHS Music Boosters. Parents and other individuals may also participate in this. Names of sponsors are listed in the concert programs and thank you notes for the tax-deductible contribution are also mailed.

Winter and Spring Concerts and Refreshments

The music department will present concerts on December 8 and 12, as well as other dates to be determined. Tickets will be sold for $5.00. Families will be asked to donate sodas or baked goods for sale during intermission. All proceeds from these events will go into the General Music Boosters account.

Poinsettias December 2000

Coordinator Sue Zimmerman (301 ) 854-0050 zimmermansue@juno.com

Orders are taken in November for large poinsettia plants that are used to decorate the stage for the winter concerts. After the last winter concert, purchasers may take their plants home to enjoy during the holidays. All proceeds go the Music Boosters general account.

MadJazz February 2, 2001

Coordinator Pam Bernard (301) 307-0137 pbernard315@msn.com

The Choir, Orchestra, Jazz Band, Madrigal Singers, and small ensembles of students perform in the cafeteria while parents and friends enjoy a selection of elegant desserts served by the students. A parent is needed to coordinate the event and other parents are needed to donate desserts, set up tables, supervise the serving, and clean up. All proceeds from this event go to the Music Boosters general account.

RHHSTival 01 January 26, 2001

Bruce Montgomery (410) 531-6450 bgm@bellatlantic.net

Bands made up of students from RHHS audition for Mr. Wampler. The bands selected perform a concert at RHHS. An admission is charged to attend. Parents are needed to help supervise this event.

Springfest late April and early May 2001

This is a jointly sponsored event of the Fine Arts Department at RHHS (art, drama, music and dance. There will be performances of some musical, dance, and drama groups and art exhibits and awards.

Miscellaneous

Refreshments may be sold at music teachers meetings and RHHS may host some music festivals in the spring. Parental help is always needed. Other fund raising events may be scheduled as the need arises.

IX. Scholarships

One or more scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors at the Spring Awards Banquet. The Music Boosters will fund the scholarship(s) from surplus funds from the previous year. Twenty percent of any surplus funds from the preceding year will be allocated to scholarships. A scholarship committee will develop the criteria and procedures for this award.

X. Summary of Fees and Expenses

The following is a summary of the various fees that are mentioned throughout the handbook:

Uniform Fees $25.00 one uniform

$50.00 two or more uniforms

$75.00 family maximum

Marching Band $100.00 Marching Band fee

$50.00 for each additional sibling

$50.00 for managers

$20-$24.00 black marching shoes

$4.00 gloves

$4.00-$8.00 instrument lyre

Spring Trip $350-$400.00 approximate cost

$30.00 - $75.00 spending money

Admissions (parents) $3.00 home football games

$5.00 competitions and some ajudications

$5.00 Music Department concerts, MadJazz

XI. Attachments

Phone Numbers and Web Sites

2000-01 Calendar of Events

2000-01 Budget

Phone Numbers and Web Sites

RHHS Music Department (410) 313-6927

Web Sites

Unofficial RHHS Web Site (announcements, e-mail, privately managed to provide a forum for discussion on all RHHS policies, including music) There is a link at this address to the official River Hill High School web site.

http://www.riverhill.org

https://members.tripod.com/~RHHSMusic/ (Music web site maintained by former student Mike Soh)

http://riverhillband.tripod.com (web site maintained by current student Patrick Gill)

You may also sign up for the Unofficial RHHS Register by sending an email to riverhill@egroups.com

II. Music Boosters